Dhaka, Dec. 15 -- Myanmar's military government lashed back on Sunday at international criticism that branded upcoming elections undemocratic, but also hinted junta chief Min Aung Hlaing could have a leadership role in the post-poll government.

The junta snatched power in a 2021 coup, toppling a civilian government, jailing its leaders and triggering a vicious civil war that has consumed the country.

The military government is overseeing phased polls set to start on December 28, pledging a return to democracy and a chance to end the fighting.

However, international democracy monitors have described the vote as an exercise in rebranding military rule, while the United Nations, Britain and Thailand have said it will be neither free nor f...